connecticut was fortunate last year to receive a waiver from the u.s. department of education for flexibility under the no child left behind at. these absolutions should not continue and they do not work for all of our states. it is time for congress to reauthorize the elementary and secondary education act. as gunners we stand ready to assist congress. -- as dubliners we stand ready to assist congress. -- as governors we stand ready to assist congress. this allows governors, chief officers, city and county leaders, local education board members, and state school board members speak with one voice and advocate for this authorization. we will not all agree on budget and priorities. we all do share a common goal of making sure our schools are safe and home to well qualified teachers and administrators, such that our children actually learn and reach their full potential. we are honored to have representatives from the coalition with us this afternoon. david atkins, executive director of the state governments, chris from the council state governments, from